Beach cynometra tree
Cynometra ramiflora

Family: Fabaceae

What it is like

A tree. It grows to 26 m high. The leaves are compound and alternate. The leaf stalks are 3-20 mm long. There are 2-4 leaflets and these are 1.2-20 cm long by 2.5-7.5 cm wide. The fruit is a brown pod. It is 3.5-4.5 mm long and 2.2-2.5 cm wide. It is warty and has one seed.

There are about 20 Cynometra species. They occur in the tropics. Also as Caesalpinaceae.

Where it is found

A tropical plant. It grows in swamps amongst the mangroves. It is best in humus-rich, moist, well-drained soils. It needs a protected, sunny position. It is damaged by frost or drought.

Countries/locations it is found in

Andamans, Asia, Australia, Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, Christmas Island, India, Indochina, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Mariana Islands, Micronesia, Myanmar, Pacific, Palau, Pohnpei, SE Asia, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam, Yap

How it is used for food

Edible parts

Leaves

How it is grown

Plants can be grown by seed. The seed needs to have its seed coat scratched or cut.

Its other names

Local names

Champrenh, Gulos, Irripa, Irudbu, Kanaga, Kekatong, Ketenguit, Kumou, Madhuka, Monable. Myinga, Nayppudukan, Pohon kateng, Pohon katong laut, Shingar, Ye-minga

Synonyms

Cynometra bijuga Span ex Miq.; and others